Manifest (transportation) facts for kids

A manifest is a special document. It lists everything that is on a ship, aircraft, or even a large truck. This includes the goods being carried (called cargo), the people traveling (called passengers), and the people working on board (the crew).

Manifests are very important for customs and other government officials. These officials use the manifest to check what is entering or leaving a country. They also make sure everything is legal and safe.

What is a Manifest?

Imagine you are sending a package or traveling on a big ship. A manifest is like a detailed checklist for that journey. It tells everyone exactly what is on board. This helps to keep track of everything.

The manifest usually includes important details. For cargo, it lists what the items are, how many there are, and where they are going. For passengers, it lists their names and sometimes other information.

A manifest from 1860. It lists people being transported on the SS Texas. This document shows names, ages, and other details.

Types of Manifests

There are different kinds of manifests, depending on what they are listing:

Passenger Manifest

A passenger manifest is a list of all the people traveling on a vehicle. This is also called a passenger list. It helps officials know who is on board. It is also useful for safety reasons, like in an emergency.

Cargo Manifest

A cargo manifest is a list of all the goods being transported. This is also known as a cargo list. It describes the items, their quantity, and their destination. This helps customs officers check for illegal goods or taxes.

Why are Manifests Important?

Manifests are very important for several reasons:

• Customs and Security: They help customs officials control what comes into a country. They can check for illegal items or make sure taxes are paid.
• Safety: Knowing who and what is on board is crucial for safety. In an emergency, it helps rescue teams know who to look for.
• Tracking and Insurance: Companies use manifests to track their goods. If something goes missing or gets damaged, the manifest helps with insurance claims. It proves what was supposed to be on board.

Related pages

• Passenger name record